Fergus Burke named in Scotland Six Nations squad

Ahead of the upcoming Six Nations competition starting in early February, Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend has named his squad for the tournament.

The squad includes former New Zealand U20 representative and ex-Crusaders first-five Fergus Burke, who has been playing in the Gallagher Premiership with Saracens.

Burke has been named as one of three first five options for Townsend, battling for a starting spot with Tom Jordan and Finn Russell.

The 25-year-old left New Zealand last year after playing 37 times for Canterbury in the NPC competition, as well as 42 games for the Crusaders between 2020-24.

Burke is eligible for Scotland through his grandfather, but also could have played for England through his mother.

Townsend spoke to the media on the day of the squad announcement, saying when he asked Burke to be a part of the squad, there was no second thought.

“When I asked him on Monday if he would commit to Scotland, he said yes. He didn’t need to be asked twice or say, ‘I’ll get back to you tomorrow’. He said it would be a privilege.

“We’ve known about his Scottish heritage for two or three years now. We’ve kept in touch. He was in consideration in November, but we didn’t feel his game at that time got him into our squad. He’s playing better and better the more he plays.”

The Scotland head coach has been aware of Burke as an option since he arrived in the north.

“He’s been on the radar for a while. I chatted with Fergus before he signed up for Saracens.

“He knew he was close to our squad, but he’s only been offered a place earlier this week.”

The opportunity for Burke has come up for Scotland due to an injury to Glasgow Warriors flyhalf Adam Hastings, who likely would have been in Townsend’s 37-man Six Nations squad.

“There is an opening in our squad with Adam [Hastings] getting injured too. So it was the right time for him. He’s someone that understands the game from an attacking perspective.

“He’s playing regular rugby at a top team with Saracens. He’s a very good defender and can also play fullback.”